Getting Ready for High School

Sipping a cup of tea reminiscing my son’s first days of preschool and many other firsts brings back nostalgic memories, as I can hardly believe that in just one week is his first day of high school.  From a baby almost nine pounds to ninth grade, where has the time gone?  I am still in disbelief that I am of the age to have a child entering high school.  Mathematically, it is possible, but psychologically, I am definitely not there yet.HIGH SCHOOL

The anxiety and anticipation is more emotional for me than I think for him.  Remembering back to my years of cliques, clubs and pressure for excellent grades to get into a good college.  Who will be his new friends?  What after school activities will he pursue?  Will his classes be too challenging or boring? Of course, there will be talks about staying away from drugs and alcohol, bullying, cyber bullying and the S word.

Time to take a breath and trust that this is going to be the best experience of his life.  He will make lifelong friends, engage in creative intellectual pursuits and strive for excellence in everything he does.  We always encourage our children to try their best with hard work and perseverance.

From forms to shopping, the preparation seems endless. Sneakers – check, backpack – check, school supplies – check, the list goes on and on.  Yes, we have shopped for these items before, but it seems like a bigger deal for high school.  What are the in styles that meet the dress code?  Which brands are the “cool” brands?  Does it even matter?

Tips for the Teenage Transition

1.    Take a breath
Again, I am in shock that I have a child entering high school.  How can all these years go by so quickly?  Take a break out of your hectic day to reflect and realize that this is the next big stage for your child, too.  Keep an open dialogue to help address their concerns as they arise.  For us, meditation, exercise, and massage are a few options for even the most stressed out parent as we prepare for the next four years of this teenage stage.

Young Woman Meditating on the Floor

2.    Be Nostalgic
Now with #TBT Throw Back Thursdays, we can share photos from those early years with friends on-line.  Sit down with your teen and look through those class photos, trophies or ribbons, class projects collecting dust or other keepsakes from those early school days.  Enjoy reminiscing together and sharing fun memories of their field trips, silly dress up days, and holiday celebrations.

Child Holding Trophy

3.    Shop Together
Your kids will know what they need and want for school.  Give them the independence to make their own selections (within reason) starting the year off with a sense of self-confidence and support.

Cheerful Young Woman with Shopping Bags

4.    Tech Time
Technology is such a big part of our children’s lives.  Make sure everyone is on board with the rules and limits for technology at school and at home.  Since so much schoolwork is on-line or uses technology these days, we limit non-educational screen time to two hours per day on the weekends.  Typically, there is very limited free time during the week with homework and extra curricular activities. Quick short breaks even using technology can help break up the hours of required work.Limiting-Kids-Screen-Time

As the first day gets closer, the excitement and anticipation builds.  Keeping the lines of communication open is key.  Being involved is also critical to know his friends, work schedule, and being there to help in anyway he needs.  It is a difficult balance to begin giving them the independence they demand and making sure they get off to a successful start.  Wish me luck!



 

Our Back to School Series is sponsored by:

divalogo Divine Individuals with Virtuous Attitudes (D.I.V.A), LLC is an enrichment, tutoring and mentoring program for girls’ ages 6-16 years. We work towards enhancing our girls’ thinking to help challenge and accelerate the learning process while working towards setting and accomplishing goals. As experienced educators we pride ourselves on utilizing our knowledge of evidence-based practices throughout all programs to ensure each girl’s success. By understanding each girl’s culture and background we illuminate the qualities they already possess.

Carrie
Carrie S. synthesized her corporate expertise, educator background and passion as a mother to develop the award-winning Exploracise® program and Fun Wise™ Exercise methodology. Inspired by her two gifted and high-energy children, Aaron and Felicia, she created fun educational products and programs to help children develop a love of learning and healthy lifestyle. Carrie is married to Adam Scheiner M.D., world-renowned Laser Eyelid and Facial Plastic Surgeon, for more than 17 years and has lived in Tampa for over14 years. Find Carrie playing with kids around Tampa, sharing ideas on Facebook or Twitter, and developing new educational games at Exploracise.com.